Ambulatory BP Monitor Test

What is it?

A blood pressure monitor records your blood pressure at intervals throughout the day and night. The monitor is worn for about one day.

Preparation

For your comfort we suggest you wear two piece clothing with a loose fitting shirt or top. It is advisable that you arrange to wear the monitor on a day when you can go about your usual activities, including attending work. You will not be able to shower or bathe until the monitor is removed the following day.

Procedure

The monitor itself is a small box approximately 10x7x3cm in dimension. The monitor is worn on a belt around your waist and there will be a tube connecting the box to a cuff which is worn on your least dominant arm. The monitor automatically inflates every 20 minutes until 10pm, then every hour until 6am the following day and then again every 20 minutes until the monitor is removed. When the cuff begins to inflate you are required to keep your arm relaxed and still down by your side until the cuff deflates. The cuff will feel very tight as the pressure rises. During the recording you will need to list the time that the cuff inflates and your activity at that time.

Results

Results will not be available at the time you return the monitor. Data will need to be downloaded and once this data is reported by the cardiologist the results will be forwarded to your referring doctor. Please allow 5 working days before making an appointment with your doctor or notify the technician if you have an appointment within the 5 days.

Returning the monitor

You can disconnect the monitor yourself. The technician will demonstrate how to do so at the time the monitor is fitted. The technician will also specify at what time the monitor needs to be returned and where. It is important to return the monitor at this time as the data must be downloaded and the monitor prepared for the next patient.

What to bring on the day

A current referral from your GP or specialist

Medicare card

Any concession or health insurance cards

Full payment will be required on the day of the test. The cost of this test is non-rebateable through Medicare or your private fund.

If you have any other queries regarding this test please do not hesitate to contact our technical staff on (08) 8293 9340.